"Death of a Salesman" is a play written by Arthur Miller that premiered on Broadway in New York City in 1949. The main protagonist, Willy Loman, is an unhappy and disgruntled businessman. His expectations for his adult son Biff are largely unmet, so Loman is disappointed that neither he nor his son have been successful at obtaining the American Dream of wealth, success and fame. When Biff doesn't get a loan to start a new sporting goods store, he steals a fountain pen from the loan officer's desk.

Business Corruption

The fountain pen symbolizes corruption and shallowness -- traits associated with greed and materialism in the business world. After stealing the pen, Biff realizes he doesn't want the same unhappy and dissatisfying life his father has clung to all these years. Biff understands that chasing the American Dream only leads to emptiness and frustration. The fountain pen symbolizes a changing point for Biff, and he returns the pen before he leaves the loan office. Biff wants to reconcile with his dad, even though he's been bitter and angry with his father ever since Biff caught him in an extramarital affair. The fountain pen helps Biff sympathize with his dad over the older man's unfulfilled dreams.

About the Author

As curriculum developer and educator, Kristine Tucker has enjoyed the plethora of English assignments she's read (and graded!) over the years. Her experiences as vice-president of an energy consulting firm have given her the opportunity to explore business writing and HR. Tucker has a BA and holds Ohio teaching credentials.